Red Bull sign up McLaren expert

The new McLaren MP4-21 owes its shape to aero expert Prodromou

McLaren's chief aerodynamicist Peter Prodromou will follow in the footsteps of technical director Adrian Newey by joining Red Bull's Formula One team.

Newey switched Formula One teams in January and Prodromou is set to join him when his current contract expires.

"It has been agreed that Peter would join the team as chief aerodynamicist later this year," Red Bull said.

Prodromou was responsible for the shape of the new McLaren MP4-21, rated as one of the 2006 title contenders.

McLaren insisted he would continue working for them throughout the upcoming season.

"Peter has been an integral part of the aerodynamics department for more than a decade," a McLaren spokesperson said.

"Peter continues to enjoy his role at McLaren and both parties have agreed that he will continue in his role throughout '06 and be involved in the preparations for '07.

"We are well aware that in the long term, Peter may develop his career elsewhere."

McLaren, runners-up last year, said they had strength in depth with more than 200 engineers working for them and it was inevitable some would be approached by other teams.